Fresh Air: The Great Indoors

The term “air pollution” might conjure up an image of a rust-belt factory, smokestacks churning out clouds of brown soot, or a city thoroughfare clogged with buses and cars spewing harmful exhaust fumes. All with good reason, of course, but we probably don’t give a lot of thought to pollutants that permeate our indoor air. Many of the furnishings in our homes (floor covering, drapes, insulation, and furniture), as well as the chemical solvents used to clean, emit gases and pollutants into living spaces. Mold can also be a recurring problem that affects air quality.

Scientists at NASA have found that houseplants can greatly purify and renew stale indoor air by filtering out toxins, airborne bacteria, and fungi, at the same time adding humidity needed to combat respiratory and allergic conditions. Just 15 houseplants can provide better air quality in an 1,800-square-foot home.

While we tend to focus on our outdoor living areas in the summer months, don’t forget about houseplants that help freshen your air. A green thumb isn’t necessarily needed, as many common houseplants are easy to grow.

Because plants absorb air pollutants and harmful gases through their leaves, which then get sucked down to the roots, keep indoor plants free from dust by wiping gently with a damp cloth.

Visit one of our nurseries for friendly, expert advice on how to keep indoor plants healthy and your home’s air quality healthy, too.